Table of Contents
What is an M.A. in strategic design?
Strategic design applies the principles of design toward creative problem-solving. A Master of Arts in strategic design provides students with a comprehensive understanding of design and its business applications, along with one-on-one mentorship and portfolio building to communicate your new skill set. The program is a fully immersive environment that replicates the rhythms and expectations of a professional firm.
Why study strategic design at Furman?
You’re one of the diverse and collaborative learners drawn to the unique opportunities and experiences available through Furman’s strategic design program. You’re intrigued by brands and their stories, and you want to learn how to tell stories that resonate with consumers. Our roster of instructors includes Furman University’s prestigious research faculty and industry professionals. Graduates can launch their creative careers with a portfolio of design works and a network of engaged mentors throughout multiple industries. Learn more by attending a virtual information session or start your application today.
How will you learn?
This program will provide you with an advanced understanding of design, art direction, copywriting and marketing strategy, along with immersion into business and communication theory in as little as 15 months. Courses are designed to give you a portfolio school experience while providing a high-impact, engaged education customized to your learning objectives and talents. You will take core courses covering strategic marketing concepts such as consumer behavior, segmentation, distribution, aesthetics, typography and integrated communications. Furman’s Master of Arts in strategic design offers student experiences designed to help you adapt to the changing job market and provide you with industry connections for your transition into a creative career. You can do an internship in the field while you develop your thesis and portfolio, supported by mentoring and advising from Furman’s research faculty and industry professionals in the field.
Careers for M.A. in strategic design graduates
Our program will prepare you to understand the role of creative thinking in art direction, copywriting and design. You’ll be equipped with the critical thinking skills to tackle strategic challenges in whatever field you pursue.
You’ll spend your last semester perfecting your portfolio, so that you can jump-start a career such as:
- Brand strategist
- Graphic designer
- Creative technologist
- SEO content specialist
- Marketing copywriter
- UX/UI designer
- Creative project manager
- Art director
- Brand strategist
Strategic design courses: What will you study?
Sample courses include:
Strategic Design Master of Arts FAQ
Furman’s MASD provides you with an advanced understanding of design, business, and communication theory. You will enter the job market ready to begin your creative careers with a portfolio of professional experience and a network of industry contacts. Potential careers include account planner, brand strategist, commercial photographer, copywriter, art director, creative director, graphic designer and public relations and marketing director.
The average starting salary for graduates is $65,000 a year, based on reports from recent graduates.
The M.A. in strategic design at Furman takes as little as 15 months.
Learn about the goals, outcomes, and details of the MASD program with a virtual presentation and Q&A. Virtual information sessions are hosted monthly and last approximately 30-45 minutes.
Register here.
View student portfolios by visiting the MASD portfolios page.
Subscribe to the MASD newsletter by emailing MASD Director Marta Lanier at [email protected], or see the latest from the program on Instagram.
Admission/Application Requirements
Available start terms: Fall, Spring, Summer
- A graduate admissions application, accompanied by a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $55 (*fee waived if submitted by early application deadline)
- Two recommendations (submitted through a link sent to each recommender)
- Statement of intent (400-500 words)
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 (2.75 preferred) or with permission of the Program Director upon application and/or appeal.
- Official transcripts from each higher education institution where a degree was earned or coursework taken contributed to a degree.
- Admission interview conducted via Zoom once all other application materials are submitted
- OPTIONAL portfolio to show prior design, marketing, social strategy or studio art experience.
Apply today by visiting our Begin Your Application page.
-
73%enter the program with little to no design experience
-
88student awards won in 5 years
-
94%job placement within six months of graduation
What our students say
Our faculty
You’ll tap into a widespread network of community and alumni mentors to help you on your individual educational path – and to the opportunities at the end of it. Furman’s strategic design faculty represents decades of study and real-world expertise. Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.
Marta Lanier
Sarah Gebbie
Jay Bopp
Emily Price
Brandon Inabinet
Tiffany Williams
Bill Swanston
Chris Rawls
Anna Riethman